Ear Reshaping Surgery (Otoplasty) New York, NY

What is Otoplasty?

Otoplasty, commonly known as ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of ears. This specialized surgical technique does not impact hearing capabilities but can provide significant psychological benefits for individuals self-conscious about their ear size or shape.

Conditions Addressed by Otoplasty

Otoplasty can effectively address multiple ear-related concerns, including:

• Abnormal ear constructions (lop ear)
• Cauliflower ear from repeated trauma
• Large, stretched, or torn earlobes
• Earlobes with prominent creases and wrinkles
• Microtia (abnormally small ears)

Ideal Candidates for Otoplasty

Otoplasty is suitable for individuals of various ages who feel self-conscious about their ear appearance. The procedure is typically performed on children between 4 and 14 years old, as ears are almost fully developed by age 4. Candidates must be in good general health and maintain realistic expectations about surgical outcomes.

The Otoplasty Procedure

Otoplasty is an outpatient procedure lasting approximately 2-3 hours. The anesthesia approach varies depending on the patient's age, with general anesthesia recommended for younger patients and local anesthesia with sedation for older children and adults.

Surgical Technique

The surgical process involves making a small incision behind the ear in the natural crease. The cartilage is then carefully sculpted and repositioned to achieve the desired aesthetic result. In some cases, skin may be removed, while in others, the cartilage is simply reshaped to create a less protruding ear.

Recovery and Aftercare

Patients typically experience minimal discomfort, with most feeling normal within hours after surgery. Medication is prescribed to manage any potential pain. A surgical dressing is worn for approximately one week, after which stitches are removed.

Post-Surgical Guidelines

• Avoid sleeping on the sides for the first two weeks
• Return to normal routines within one week
• Expect faint, strategically placed scars that typically fade over time

Potential Risks and Complications

Otoplasty complications are rare and usually minor. Potential issues include temporary blood clots, minor infections, or changes in skin sensation. Patients should understand that perfect symmetry is not guaranteed, as natural ears are not entirely identical.

For more information about Otoplasty in New York, NY, submit an enquiry to Scot Bradley Glasberg, M.D.